Skills Required when Working in the Health and Social Care Sector – Level 2 Health and Social Care BTEC Revision

Communication Skills

Active listening: Listen attentively and respond empathetically to the needs, feelings, and concerns of the service user.
Verbal communication: Use clear and appropriate language to effectively convey information. This includes being mindful of maintaining professional, respectful language and tone of voice.
Non-verbal communication: This may include maintaining eye contact, nodding to show understanding, and using open body language to foster trust and openness.
Written communication: This can be vital in recording key information about patients, as well as for communicating effectively with other team members.

Empathy and compassion: Demonstrate an understanding and sensitivity towards the emotional, social and physical needs of each patient.
Teamwork: Effectively collaborate with other healthcare professionals, patients, families, and carers.
Resolving conflict: Address disputes in a calm, respectful, and effective manner to ensure a safe and comfortable environment for everyone.

Time management: Prioritise tasks, meet deadlines, and manage time effectively to ensure quality care.
Record keeping: Keep accurate, secure, and up-to-date records of patient information, as this is an essential part of providing appropriate care.

Clinical skills: Demonstrate ability in basic clinical procedures necessary for the role, such as taking blood pressure, administering medication, or wound care.
Health and safety: Understand and adhere to health and safety guidelines and protocol, ensuring that the environment is safe for service users and colleagues.
IT skills: Use electronic health record systems, email, and other healthcare related applications.

Resilience: Be able to cope with high-pressure situations, demanding work schedules, and emotional distress.
Adaptability: Be flexible and accepting of change. The healthcare environment can change rapidly and unpredictably, so adaptability is a crucial quality.
Professionalism: Be reliable, uphold confidentiality, demonstrate good judgement, and always maintain ethical conduct when interacting with service users and colleagues.